Signal Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Bolsters National Security and Strengthens U.S. Supply Chains by Imposing Tariffs on Drones and Their Parts and Components

Summary

President Trump signed a proclamation on August 13, 2026 imposing tariffs on imported drones and their components, citing national security concerns tied to reliance on foreign suppliers. The proclamation sets a 100% tariff on drones weighing more than 25 kilograms, drones with thermal imaging capability, docking stations, and certain critical components, effective September 3, 2026. A 25% tariff applies to smaller consumer drones without those capabilities, including products from major brands such as DJI and Autel, effective February 9, 2027. Drones and components from the EU, Japan, Liechtenstein, South Korea, Switzerland and Taiwan receive a reduced 15% rate, and UK-origin products receive a 10% rate, provided their hardware, software and technology originate substantially from those countries. Commerce Secretary Lutnick stated that drones and components from certain foreign entities pose security and safety risks that domestic production does not yet meet. China, whose drone industry was valued at $15.6 billion in 2025, is widely seen as the primary target of the measure.